Creating a Smoke-Free Policy

Step 1: Assessing your situation

Passing a smoke-free bylaw in cooperative housing requires member support, which will require knowledge and preparation. Before you even begin drafting a bylaw, gain a clear understanding of the situation you are facing. Every community will be different.

Step 2: Engaging members and other relevant stakeholders

Are you hesitant to consider a smoke-free policy because it could be divisive? Stakeholder engagement is about talking with and listening to the people who would be affected by a smoke-free policy in your condo. Going smoke-free is easier when everyone is meaningfully engaged. This site has a wealth of information and resources to overcome communication barriers and plan exactly how you will engage all important stakeholders to successfully pass and implement your bylaw.

Step 3: Drafting your smoke-free policy

To draft a policy that works for your cooperative community, you will need to consider and spell out exactly who will be bound by the policy, where it will apply, what will be regulated, when it will come into effect and how it will be enforced.

Step 4: Implementing your smoke-free policy

Once you know exactly what you want out of your smoke-free policy and are confident that enough of your stakeholders are on board, the next step is to get your bylaw passed and put into effect. Follow the necessary procedures to adopt a bylaw and communicate well throughout. Plan ahead for a smooth implementation process.

Step 5: Enforcing your smoke-free policy

Engaging and communicating with your stakeholders regarding your smoke-free policy will go a long way in facilitating enforcement. Likely, your members will be the biggest advocates of your policy and will readily tell you when someone is not following the rules. Most people comply with smoke-free policies when they are clearly and effectively communicated. Still, you should be prepared and know ahead of time how you will respond to any problems.